Dhaka:President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today emphasized the importance of advanced preparedness and effective urban planning to tackle both natural and manmade disasters.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the President highlighted the severe risks Dhaka city faces from potential earthquakes, noting the devastating impact unplanned urban systems can have on casualty rates. He stressed the need for improved urban management, particularly in housing construction and river conservation.
Speaking at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre on the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, Mirza Fakhrul called for measures to prevent environmental pollution and enhance disaster-resilient infrastructure. He also referred to global warming as a critical issue, affecting Bangladesh despite its minimal contribution to the problem.
He acknowledged the significant progress Bangladesh has made in disaster management, citing reduced casualties through early warning systems and increased public awareness. The President urged for a transition from early warning to early action, emphasizing preparation prior to disasters.
He also pointed out the need for legislation to support volunteers in disaster management and encouraged the planting of 250 million trees as a part of the government’s conservation efforts. The President praised the awareness of people in disaster-prone areas and the effective early warnings by the Meteorological Department.
In conclusion, President Mirza Fakhrul called for collective efforts to build a disaster-resilient Bangladesh, urging prompt response to early warnings and community participation in local disaster management activities.